Jerry Don Kruse, of Mason, passed away on Tuesday, July 4, at the age of 81.  Jerry is survived by his wife, Elaine Kruse, of Mason, two sons, Jimmy Kruse and wife Susan of Greenville, South Carolina, and Randy Kruse and wife Pam of Mason, a sister, Jaunita Horton of Mason, four grandchildren: Jessica Markell and husband Blaine, Casey Kruse and wife Kelsey, Sarah Essich, Stacey Ganss and husband Philip and eight great-grandchildren: Makenzie Kruse, Laney Kruse, Brinlee Kruse, Rhyder Markell, Paul Ganss, Charlotte Ganss, Evelyn Ganss and Diana Ganss.

Jerry was born on June 23, 1942 in Brady, Texas, to Vernon Monroe Kruse and Lorene Henderson Kruse.  He was a life-long resident of Mason.  On June 23, 1961 he married Elaine Clevenger and they were together for over 62 years.  Jerry was a farmer and rancher in Mason County but his passion was fishing.  He was a long-time fishing guide at Lake Amistad.  All who knew Jerry would agree that he had a gift for gab and was a great story teller.

A Memorial Service celebrating Jerry's life will be held on Sunday, July 9, at 2:00 p.m. at Mason Funeral Home